#rumfamily : Favourite Brand Ambassadors-Miguel Smith

The next brand ambassador in the #rumfamily series is the one and only Miguel Smith. We have known Miguel for many years and he was one of the first to really open our eyes to the world of Rum!

How long have you been a brand ambassador?
January 2012……where has the time gone?!!

Which Brands do you represent?
Mount Gay Rum of course!

What got you into it?
Mount Gay Rum approached me. At the time I was living a rock and roll lifestyle as bar manager of a prestigious members club bar in South Kensington. My profound love for Rum was never far away and they were searching for someone to represent the Brand in the UK. Destiny and luck combined.

What is the Best thing about being a brand ambassador?
Is this a trolling question?lol. It varies daily. Having ‘Rum Moments’ where people discover something about Mount Gay that resonates with them, whether about Barbados, our story, the taste or aroma.

What is the worst thing about being a brand ambassador?
Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

What advice would you give to someone looking for a career in the industry?
Protect your integrity.  Fall in love with the thing you have to speak about every day. Remain curious. Live passionately.…don’t take yourself too seriously!

Can you recommend some bars to enjoy your brands in?
If it stocks  Mt Gay, you’re in a great place! Fam, Burlock, Laki Kane, Hedonism Leeds, Revolution De Cuba Everywhere!, Oriole, Sketch London, Swift, Kelvingrove Café Glasgow, The Citizen, Manhattan Bar Singapore! But absolutely nowhere on planet earth beats The John Moore RumShop on the west coast of Barbados for some sundowners!!!

How is the industry changing in regards to Rum?
I’ve seen huge changes since my start! The consumer universe for premium Rum has increased and the demand for real Rum is higher. On the other hand the market is flooding with flavoured and confected  ‘Rums’ creating confusion and resetting the consumer’s understanding of taste. We stay the course and continue to demand high expectations of ourselves. Its a never-ending  process dispelling the rumour and heresy within the category but I love doing that. I remain optimistic and will continue to be the Defender of Real Rum.

Is there anything exciting on the horizon we should look out for?
Always but we are in the time business so wait and see!

What is your drink of choice using your brand?
Black Barrel,Ginger Ale, lots of ice and a slice of Orange. No straw. And don’t forget good company and a great view.